Dr. German Zermeno, MD
Experience a unique approach to health and wellness with Dr. German Zermeno at the American Institute of Natural Medicine.
Dr. German Zermeno, the visionary behind the American Institute of Natural Medicine in Southern California, offers a unique approach to healthcare. His focus on functional medicine and belief in patient empowerment set him apart. He provides patients with non-conventional, affordable, high-quality medical care. This unique approach is designed to intrigue and pique the curiosity of potential patients, inviting them to explore a different path to wellness.
Academic Excellence & Medical Foundation
After graduating from the prestigious School of Medicine, National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), in Mexico City, as a Physician and Surgeon, Dr. Zermeno completed his postgraduate fellowship training in Gastrointestinal disease at the National Medical Center in Mexico City (now known as Siglo XXI). He then relocated to Southern California, where he completed the requirements and training to obtain his M.D. license. He has been practicing medicine as a primary care physician since 1986.
The Shift to Functional Medicine
After practicing conventional medicine for 20 years in a multispecialty medical group, he realized that he was only treating symptoms, not the cause of the disease, and the patients were not participating in their healing. He decided to find other treatments aimed at the cause of the illness and not just the symptoms. In his search, he discovered Functional/anti-aging medicine. He became very passionate after observing the results of this new knowledge. After meeting all the requirements, he became board-certified by the American Academy of Antiaging Medicine. Since then, he has learned and employed other effective therapeutic modalities, like ozone therapy, nutrition, energy medicine, detoxification, hormone replacement therapy, etc.
Proven Results in Irvine, California
With a rich 15-year history in the field, Dr. Zermeno has been practicing Functional Medicine, delivering satisfying results and experiences to his patients.
His practice is currently located in Irvine, California.
Dr. Aitana Zermeno, ND
Dr. Aitana Zermeno is a licensed Naturopathic Doctor (ND) and Associate Professional Clinical Counselor (APCC) offering virtual naturopathic care throughout California, as well as in-person microneedling treatments in Orange County. She provides integrative health care for those who want more than just a quick fix. Her approach blends the wisdom of naturopathic medicine with the rigor of modern, evidence-informed strategies—so your care is rooted in both tradition and science.
Before becoming a doctor, Dr. Aitana was a patient herself. She knows firsthand the physical and emotional toll of persistent acne. For years, she cycled through dermatologists and conventional treatments—oral antibiotics, hormonal birth control, spironolactone, countless topicals—only to see minimal or short-lived improvement. It wasn’t until she addressed deeper root causes, like gut health, hormone imbalances, inflammation, and emotional stress, that she experienced lasting relief.
That journey changed everything. It inspired her to pursue a career helping others achieve the same kind ofskin transformation—one that starts on the inside.
A unique blend of science and soul
Dr. Aitana earned her Biology degree from Duke University, completed clinical research training at a Harvard-affiliated hospital, and received her Doctorate in Naturopathic Medicine and Master’s in Counseling Psychology from Bastyr University. She then completed her naturopathic residency at the University of California–Irvine and is now pursuing licensure as a professional clinical counselor in California.
With dual training in medicine and mental health, Dr. Aitana specializes in care that treats the whole person—body, mind, and spirit. Her work is especially meaningful to women and individuals who’ve felt dismissed, overlooked, or gaslit by traditional systems of care.
Whether you’re navigating acne flare-ups, hormonal chaos, stress, or emotional overwhelm, she’ll partner with you to create a care plan that feels personal, compassionate, and empowering.
What she believes
Dr. Aitana’s philosophy is simple: skin is a reflection of what’s happening beneath the surface. True healing requires more than prescriptions—it requires curiosity, collaboration, and care that goes deeper. Her practice centers around:
• Root-cause discovery, using advanced lab testing and symptom mapping
• Nervous system support to reduce stress-driven inflammation
• Compassionate counseling and coaching to help move through mental-emotional roadblocks and stay accountable to your healing plan
• Evidence-informed treatment plans, tailored to your biology, goals, and lifestyle
She believes that confidence doesn’t come from clear skin alone—it comes from reclaiming your health, your story, and your power.
Outside the treatment room
Dr. Aitana is a passionate advocate for culturally competent care. She believes deeply in creating healing spaces that feel inclusive and validating.
When she’s not working with clients, you can find her on a hike, at the beach, tending to her garden, or building community with other wellness professionals.